Chemical-free Father’s Day gift ideas

The most controversial toxic chemicals these days are endocrine disruptors, which interfere with hormone functioning and fertility among other apparent health effects. In men, the endocrine disruptors BPA and pthalates have been linked to lower sperm counts and testosterone levels and and prostate cancer.

So how about giving the dad in your life a gift that protects the healthy hormones that made him a dad in the first place? Here are some ideas.

If your Dad is a cook, buy him some Teflon-free cookware. Most non-stick cookware is made using a chemical linked to cancer and early menopause. Choose stainless steel, cast iron or enameled pots and pans instead.

Essential oil to replace any cologne that he wears. Fragrances are utterly unregulated and often contain phthalates, a group of chemicals found in many products. Higher levels of some phthalates have been associated with poor sperm quality in men.

House slippers. Taking off outside shoes at the door helps keep pesticides and other chemicals from spreading around your home. Vacuuming frequently helps, too, but chances are Dad wouldn’t be excited about a vacuum cleaner. (Examples of “green” slippers here and here.)

A BPA-free food container or water bottle to take lunch to work. Most reusable plastic food containers and water bottles contain BPA, which can leach into water and food, especially when heated.

A drinking water filtration system. Look for an “NSF” certification on the label: Not all filters catch chemicals. And if you’re buying a plastic pitcher, make sure it’s BPA free.

Adapted from materials provided by Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families. For more information, see the group’s fact sheet [PDF] on men’s health and chemicals.